The Clone Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 with Turquoise Dial
Over the years, my watch collection has grown somewhat eclectically, a reflection of my personal style and the varied stories behind each piece. While many collectors might follow strict rules about purchasing watches, my experience has taught me that one principle is particularly vital – handling a watch before buying it. It’s easy to be swayed by photos or others’ opinions, but nothing beats the tactile experience of seeing and feeling a piece firsthand. 
This story, is about how I broke that rule and ended up with a watch few could have predicted I’d choose: the clone Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 with a vibrant turquoise blue dial, released just recently.
How the Oyster Perpetual 41 Found Its Way into My Collection
In the context of my friend Terry’s watch taonomy, this one is clearly a “fun” piece – a watch that brings instant joy every time I strap it on. The price was also manageable enough that I don’t constantly worry about its value. Yet, despite its playful side, it holds some qualities of a “foundational” watch too, as it comes from Rolex, a brand that forms the backbone of any serious collection.
Although I have only a brief history with Rolex – having previously shared why I didn’t own one – my views shifted when I bought my first Rolex, a GMT-Master II “Batman,” which I sold to a friend in early 2020. Over time, I grew more comfortable with the world of Rolex, even if I still maintained skepticism toward the frenzy surrounding vintage pieces, particularly the infamous Paul Newman Daytonas and the culture of false scarcity surrounding modern steel sport models.
During my journey into the replica Rolex world, I started talking with more Rolex enthusiasts and was introduced to a fascinating line of vintage pieces: the Stella lacquer-dial Day-Dates. These watches, with their boldly colored dials, caught my attention like few others had.
Falling for the “Stella” Dial Inspiration
If you ever find yourself putting a watch on, taking it off, and then putting it back on repeatedly, you know you’ve developed an affection for it. I went through this exact cycle with the vintage Stella pieces, although my lack of expertise in vintage Rolex watches kept me from pulling the trigger on one – especially given their hefty auction prices, like the CHF 200,000 for a yellow Stella dial in 2020.
When Rolex unveiled its new collection in September 2020, the major attention was focused on the updated Submariner. However, there was also a quieter launch that intrigued me: the new 36 mm and 41 mm Oyster Perpetual models with vibrant lacquered dials. While some critics disparaged the bright colors as “imitation Nomos dials,” I saw it differently. These new models were a clear homage to the vintage Stella dials, offering a much more affordable way for enthusiasts to enjoy that playful, colorful Rolex aesthetic.
After mulling it over and discussing with friends, I wrote to a local authorized Rolex dealer for a 41 mm model in turquoise blue. To my surprise, I was at the top of the waiting list, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Why the Oyster Perpetual 41 Works for Me
For me, the appeal of this watch is that it feels both familiar and unique. The design pays homage to the vintage Stella pieces, yet it stands apart from both the vast sea of modern Rolex models and the other watches in my collection. Although Rolex doesn’t officially call it a “Stella,” I refer to it as “Stella-inspired,” as its lacquer dial clearly evokes that vintage aesthetic.
One of the things I enjoy most about the new Oyster Perpetual is its balance. It modernizes the Stella look without copying it, and the result is something I find more appealing than a literal re-edition would have been. The 41 mm size fits my medium-sized wrist perfectly, thanks to the case’s gentle curvature and the bracelet that tapers away from the lugs. The broad, curved bezel prevents the dial from looking too overwhelming, and the smaller Twinlock crown adds a touch of elegance without compromising water resistance.
Another design feature that stands out, and one that caused some controversy among Rolex purists, is the use of double batons at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. While some may criticize this choice, it’s actually a nod to previous Rolex models, such as the 6567 from the 1950s. It’s a small but thoughtful detail that connects this model to Rolex’s design history.
Other little touches I love include the “secret” signature on the dial and the “Superlative Chronometer” indication, which certifies the watch’s impressive timekeeping. Rolex now guarantees a tolerance of -2/+2 seconds per day, a level of precision I can genuinely appreciate. In my experience, my watch has consistently run at +3 seconds, well within my desired margin for daily wear. 
Practicality Meets Beauty
The Oyster bracelet is another highlight, providing both solid construction and comfort. The curved links create a smooth fit around the wrist, while the Easylink extension in the clasp allows for a quick 5 mm adjustment, which is handy on particularly hot or cold days.
The legibility of the clone Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 is exceptional. Its hands and indices are beautifully crafted, catching the light in a way that makes it easy to read at a glance. The blue Chromalight lume also performs admirably, providing a bright, clear glow in low-light conditions.
On the wrist, the watch feels striking yet comfortable, and from a photographer’s standpoint, it’s a dream. The clean design and contrasting finishes reduce reflections and make it easy to capture in photos.
Is It the Right Choice for You?
For my collection, the Oyster Perpetual 41 is a perfect fit. It offers a fun, colorful addition without breaking the bank. From a business perspective, Rolex has turned an often-overlooked entry-level line into one of the year’s most sought-after models. This could be the right choice for you if: 
In my diverse collection, the Oyster Perpetual 41 fits right in. I’ve always appreciated wearing bright colors, and the turquoise dial complements the Native American jewelry I wear daily. For those who enjoy photography, the watch’s legibility and reflective qualities make it a joy to shoot. As for whether it’s a long-term keeper or will eventually find its way to another collector, only time will tell.